LDP-Backed Koja Wins Okinawa Governor Race

Genta Koja, a former deputy mayor of Naha, secured victory in the Okinawa gubernatorial election on September 13 by defeating incumbent Governor Denny Tamaki. This marks a significant political shift in the prefecture, ending 12 years of administrations committed to opposing the relocation of the U.S. Marine Corps Air Station Futenma to Henoko in Nago.

Koja, 42, was backed by multiple parties, including the Liberal Democratic Party, Nippon Ishin no Kai, the Democratic Party for the People, Sanseito, the Conservative Party, and the Okinawa chapter of Komeito. Tamaki, 66, sought re-election with support from the All Okinawa coalition, which has long opposed the Henoko relocation.

Koja's win signifies the most notable political change in Okinawa since Takeshi Onaga's victory in 2014, who also campaigned against the Henoko project. The dispute over the project began in 1996 when Japan and the US agreed to return Futenma following concerns over accidents, noise, and the risks associated with the installation.

The central government's decision to construct a replacement facility in Henoko has been a major point of contention, with opponents arguing it merely shifts the burden rather than resolving the issue. Despite opposition, construction proceeded on the Oura Bay site, with successive governments pushing forward through legal and administrative measures.

Koja's election removes the long-standing opposition from the governor's office, potentially streamlining coordination with the central government during construction. However, opposition remains among residents, civic groups, and political parties, and other issues related to the U.S. military presence in Okinawa persist.